Chapter 4—Dementors and More
After a quick lunch Harry returned home, showered and changed and decided to interrogate his captives. He learned quite a lot from them after giving each of them veritaserum. All thought of using the restricted potion illegally was pushed aside. He brewed all his own potions now so who would know as long as he didn't kill anyone, and that wasn't what he had planned. He snickered at thinking just what Professor Snape would have to say about his potions skills now. Potions Master indeed! The man was unscrupulous, sure he could brew a decent potion but he didn't understand to the level of creating his own. 'Well you don't either Mr. Smartass' 'Yeah but at least I can admit it so shut up I'm trying to concentrate here!' Harry would give these men a measure of justice that wasn't given him. With the Veritaserum they would have the chance to prove their innocence. Of course, just as he suspected, none of them were innocent and he was disgusted learning about the killings and tortures they inflicted on innocents for their dark Lord. They would receive justice, but not the justice the wizarding world would dish out. No this would be more appropriate. He was elated that he had captured Lucious Malfoy and a special punishment would be instilled upon the man. Although he didn't learn anything new about Voldemorts plans, he learned some interesting personal tidbits that would allow him to elaborate on his own plans a bit.
Lucious of course had the most information to give and Harry learned the location of the secret safe in Fudge's office. He also learned of many other prospective documents the foolish minister had kept that would incriminate the idiot if found. Top priority was set on a plan to get this evidence which would not only prove his innocence, but take out the bastard Fudge and provide a little revenge on his former friends. Killing two birds with one stone would be a change for the better in his opinion, although it was more like 3 or 4 birds that would be shot.
For the next several nights, Harry worked tirelessly in order to set up his chess board. He had prevented two more Death Eater attacks taking into custody 10 more of the dark wizards and handing over 15 to the ministry courtesy of his special portkeys. Instead of leaving the sight of the attacks, he waited hidden from detection, counting off the minutes it took for the Aurors to arrive.
'Sluggish lot,' he thought, 'incompetents really.' Although he did have to give them credit to a certain extant, they were good fighters but followed the rules of the ministry to a tea which crippled them every time. Arriving late to the scenes they insured the downfall of the wizarding world if it weren't for Harry. He studied their procedures and tactics when they arrived and knew they would fall into his plans nicely. They didn't bother to scan for any residual magical aura and never noticed him silently observing their actions, not that they really could but they shouldn't they at least try?
The Daily Prophet somehow got a hold of the information about the attacks and the 'mysterious man in black' that was all powerful and captured the Death Eaters now held at the ministry. The articles eclipsed those of the escape of the Boy-Who-Lived. Public opinion was split on this man and Harry chuckled when he read the articles describing him as both a man of immense powers but suspected to be dangerous and insane. Harry had to admit, he was by no means 'All Powerful' just more powerful than any wizard living today. The Fates deemed it too dangerous for any wizard to have that much power and didn't want to risk the wrath of the Supreme Being who WAS all powerful. No one seemed to know who this wizard really was or where he came from. Some thought him the new hero of the light, while others clouded by bigotry feared him as a new dark lord because of his powers. It was also hinted at in the articles that Dumbledore was seeking this mysterious man and would do all in his power to insure that he didn't interfere with the war against Voldemort. Harry laughed aloud at this revelation not noticing the stares he was receiving from the other patrons in the pub. Although they had seen this strange new man regularly for the last week or so eating at the pub, they still didn't know who he was and were scared to start up any conversation with the strange wizard. One just didn't do that sort of thing nowadays. He seemed jovial and polite enough but there was something about him that made them keep their distance.
Voldemort on the other hand was raging. Canceling his attack after learning that Harry Potter had escaped Azkaban before he could put his plan in motion fueled his anger to no end. He tortured his followers for their inadequacies in getting the boy even though they didn't and couldn't have known about his escape any earlier. Voldemort didn't care and cursed them for not finding him.
"He's only a 16 year old boy!" he roared. "A boy who has spent a year in Azkaban with Dementors guarding him. An ignorant boy who hasn't even completed his magical training and no longer has a wand! Surely such a weak stupid boy cannot elude my most powerful followers!"
"My Lord I believe someone is protecting him, sheltering….AHHHHHH!" Bellatrix Lestrange tried to answer before being placed under the cruciatus curse.
"Do not attempt to make excuses Bella! Who would be powerful enough to keep him from me now? I know that idiot Dumbledore doesn't have him! Everyone is searching for him but you, the most powerful feared wizards in the world cannot even locate the boy! I want him within the week!" The Dark Lord screamed his rage once again placing all his followers under the pain curse before spelling out his plan of attack.
Watching through his connection with Voldemort, Harry stifled his laughter at his nemesis's rage and incompetence. Of all things he believed that Dementors would do the job nicely. Hah! Voldemort had another thing coming. Harry decided he would play a little game with Voldemort.
Two days later Harry once again was sitting on the edge of the river, this time wrapped within his robes so no one could see him as he was not wearing any disguise. His plan would be set in motion today. He could feel the Dementors focusing in on him from miles away and bided his time. He felt Ginny's presence and wished she was away from here. Knowing he couldn't approach her as he was and that the Dementors wouldn't have time to harm her he pretended to ignore the red head.
Within 30 minutes the Dementors were swarming on the small village of Hogsmeade. Harry felt them and could hear the fearful screams of the people as they ran for safety. However, the Dementors weren't after any of them, they had one target in mind, Harry Potter. They were drawn to him, with the promise of the Dark Lord who would give them whatever they desired. So Harry let them come allowing them to sense his magical aura. Unfortunately they were in for a rude awakening.
As the dark figures closed in around Harry he stood quietly, almost uncaring. For a second the Dementors looked as if they were shocked, if one could say such a dark soulless creature could react like that. They almost seemed to be contemplating their actions. As if coming to a decision they tightened their circle around the boy. A bright light wavered slightly and then the Dementors had a new purpose. They immediately vanished and set off after their new prey.
Ginny watched frozen with fear as the Dementors circled around the man by the river. She couldn't move and for an instant she saw black wavy hair whipped by the magical wind created by the Dementors and sparkling emerald eyes. NO! It couldn't be! Harry? A voice in her head told her to remain still and not to interfere. For some reason the voice was calm and comforted her almost pleading with her to obey. She did and was shocked beyond imagination when the man shot his hand into the air and light wavered around him. The Dementors stopped and then disappeared. Ginny feinted.
Harry changed his features and rushed over to where Ginny was laying unconscious on the ground. He had felt her presence earlier and almost wavered in his determination. He could feel the moment of surprise when she had recognized him and he sent her a telepathic message not to interfere. He was slightly relieved to find that she had feinted as soon as the Dementors disappeared, as it would provide a cover for him. Checking to make sure she was alright he lifted her light weight easily and carried her to her brother's shop. He liked the feel of her warm body next to his. Her breaths flickered against his neck creating a tingling sensation that coursed through his body. Her head resting on his shoulder was so close he could smell the light scent of lavender shampoo and drank in her beautiful face. He fought against the urge to kiss those soft lips.
His arrival at the shop was too soon for his liking but he new he couldn't linger. Opening the shop and surprising two identical red-heads and a bushy haired Hermione he strode into the shop with his precious cargo, steeling himself against the onslaught of emotions they caused.
"Is there somewhere I could lay her down?" he asked to the room in general. He felt slightly unnerved in the presence of his former friends but blanked his mind in order to escape the situation in some semblance of control.
The three stood still for a few minutes at the stranger's entrance. After realizing who the man was carrying, Hermione was the first to react.
"There's a couch in the back room, lay her there. What Happened? Is she okay? Who are you?" They all questioned.
Harry ignored them thinking only of Ginny and strode through a back door behind the sales shelves. Spotting the comfortable couch he gently laid her down on it and cast a warming spell over her.
"Do you have any chocolate?"
"Here give her this." One of the red-heads thrust a bar of chocolate into his hands. Harry looked at Fred or George, he wasn't sure which, suspiciously. The red-head raised an eyebrow at the stranger's scrutiny. Fred thought the stranger looked familiar but he couldn't place it. Harry quickly made sure the chocolate was safe and shook Ginny gently awake.
"Here eat this" he offered.
"Ooh! Where am I?" Her dazed eyes glanced around the shop finally recognizing the place. She looked up into the blue eyes of the man kneeling next to her and started.
"Who are you? Where's Harry?"
"Gin, what are you talking about?" Hermione asked concerned for her friend's state of mind.
"Oy there, mister, who are you and what did you do to our sister?"
Harry sighed then stood up to face the now slightly angered twins. "It was the Dementors, they attacked the town and I found her lying by the river unconscious. After the Dementors left I tried to wake her but couldn't, so I brought her here, yours is the only shop open so I guess I got lucky." Harry felt guilty at his half truths but knew anything else would only create more questions, so he shrugged it off.
"Dementors! Here in Hogsmeade! When?" George nearly shouted.
"Just a few minutes ago, I don't really know what happened but they're gone now."
"Who are you?" Hermione asked again narrowing her eyes in distrust.
"My name is James Roper." He bowed slightly. "I'm newly arrived in Hogsmeade from America." It was better than anything else he could come up with as a cover and would conceal his identity from them and any research she might instigate. Hopefully she didn't notice that his accent wasn't quite right for and American.
Seeming to accept his answer they calmed a bit and turned their attention back to Ginny. She was stilling eyeing Harry suspiciously and he felt like she could see through his disguise unnerving him again.
"Well I guess I should get going, hope you feel better ma'am." Without waiting for another word he left the shop quickly returning to his home. After clearing his mind he sat down on a couch in his empty living room sipping on a glass of Tartan's Single Malt Scotch, it was a strong but smooth drink and was soon relaxed slipping into sleep.
Voldemort and his followers felt the cold invade the dungeons they were holding their gathering in. Soon the effect of the Dementors could be felt and anticipation coursed through his veins. They had succeeded and it was done quicker than he had dreamed possible. His nemesis was gone! If anyone could describe the Dark Lord in such a way, they would say he was as excited as a 4 year old over a new toy. The snakelike man rubbed his hands together gleefully and waited for the confirmation that Harry Potter, the bane of his existence was no longer alive.
The Dementors swarmed through the darkened dungeons seeking out their prey. The smell of evil pervaded their senses and they knew he was close. Closer and closer they floated until standing before them was the one they sought. They circled around him with their rattling breaths permeating the silent dungeon. They ignored the questions and orders intent only on taking their prey, earning their reward.
Voldemort noticed the difference in the Dementors as they filled the dank room. His followers were on the ground curled up moaning and crying out as the effects took hold and they relived their worst memories. Voldemort demanded they report on their progress but they didn't listen, instead they tightened their circle around him. Instantly Voldemort became aware that something had changed with the Dementors, they were now after him and his anger flared. Who could turn Dementors, who had the power to control his minions other than himself! They would pay for this outrage. His thoughts were immediately returned to the present as slim boney fingers grabbed at his robes and body trying to force him to the ground so they could administer the kiss. Voldemort fought and using every ounce of magic he possessed he was able to turn the Dementors back to his control. Banishing them he stood up and screamed his vengeance against whoever did this, but all of a sudden he quieted as if trying hard to hear something.
"Hello Tom, how do you like a taste of your own medicine?" a voice sounded in his mind.
"Who are you?"
"You don't know? Oh Tom, I'm severely disappointed, I thought you were smarter than that."
"I will kill you for what you have done, you will feel pain unimaginable…."
"Hah hah hah hah! Tom, do you think you can inflict anything more upon me than I have already been through. No! You will now be at my mercy Tom. You will have visited upon you what you have made the rest of the world suffer. Have fun Tom. I know I will." And with that the voice vanished from the Dark Lords mind but not before inflicting enough pain to make the evil man fall to his knees grasping at his head. He had no power to fight off the pain; regaining control of the Dementors had made him weak diminishing his powers greatly and now this….this…..POTTER! But how could the boy be that powerful. He would find out. He would kill the boy and make him suffer like none other.
Harry was still laughing at his confrontation with Voldemort. The fear that coursed through the evil gits mind when he realized the Dementors had turned on him was priceless. Harry never knew he could inflict so much fear into the Dark Lord, and have unprecedented access to the mans mind. He reveled in the fact that the Dark Lord was almost ready to wet himself. Satisfied that Voldemorts powers were drained almost to exhaustion, Harry blinded the man with pure white magic, just enough to give the man a taste of the pain he inflicted on others. It was only an iota of the power Harry had at his control, but Voldemort didn't know that and wouldn't know it until Harry was ready to reveal it. It felt good turning the tables for once.
After waking up refreshed he chuckled again, knowing that Voldemort would be waking up with a severe headache if he woke at all anytime soon. Most wizards would be out for at least a week after what he had done to him. Withstanding a blast of pure white magic was not an easy thing to do. He didn't really know if the evil creature slept, but he did know that he wouldn't be using any magic for several days. Opening his trunk he set to work interrogating his new prisoners and brewing the many potions he would need for the next several weeks.
Several days passed and Albus Dumbledore called another emergency meeting of the order to discuss recent findings.
"I have brought you all here tonight to discuss the ongoing attacks of the Death Eaters."
The room all bowed their head, they knew what was coming.
"It has been confirmed that Potter has indeed rejoined Voldemort and has participated in attacks against muggles. Arthur found Mr. Potter's emancipation records filed in the Ministry, unfortunately they were already processed so we can not use that against him. Somehow Mr. Potter has also acquired a new wand and has control of the resources contained within both the Potter and Black family vaults. He has also been able to cripple the order financially. I have learned that half the orders funds have been removed. How he was able to obtain the information I am not sure as the goblins are not talking. There is more to the stories in the papers. Although it mentions sightings of Harry Potter by witnesses at the attacks, the only proof we have comes from Death Eaters found on the scenes. It is interesting to note that no deaths were reported during these attacks from either side. The only Death eaters found to question are those that appear at the ministry building with specialized portkeys that we cannot trace a magical aura on. A puzzling situation and the victims do not remember anything of the attack. Quite curious really. It seems that as for now this mysterious man in black is on our side. But I digress. It seems that we must step up our efforts in retrieving Mr. Potter and the ministry has agreed to assist us in our efforts."
"I can't believe this is happening," Mrs. Weasley said in an agonized whisper.
Everyone seemed to agree with this sentiment but it was soon replaced with fierce anger as the thought that they had been betrayed yet again.
"I understand the strain everyone is under but I must ask that you continue in your surveillance and tracking. We must find Harry Potter and remove him from the war. I ask you to refrain from killing him out right as there might be important information we may be able to gain from him that could aid in assisting the light." Ending the conversation Dumbledore stood up to leave looking older than he had in a long time. The twinkle was gone from his eyes and his shoulders were stooped over almost as if in defeat. With a flash from the fireplace he was gone.
"Well why don't you all clean up for dinner, I'll have something ready in a few minutes" Mrs. Weasley stated plainly trying to get her mind off the current affairs.
"I'll help Molly," Tonks offered but was waved off by an already distracted Molly.
"Let's all go in the other room and try to think of other things" suggested Mr. Weasley tiredly. His thoughts however would not be subdued; they were focused on a young black haired, emerald green eyed boy who he had once thought of as one of his own. He was thunderstruck when they heard of Harry's betrayal and the murder of Percy and he just couldn't get his hands around why it happened. Harry had always seemed like such a nice polite young man. Sure he seemed to get into a lot of trouble but it wasn't like he was looking for it, was he? How could they have missed something so important in his character! What had happened to turn the boy to evil? He was distracted by a small glass being shoved into his hand and downed the contents without thinking and sat down in one of the wing chairs by the fire staring absently across the room.
"Have another dad," Bill offered filling his father's glass again.
"Thank you son,"
"How could we miss something so important, were there signs that we missed that would have clued us in?" Bill asked echoing his father's thoughts.
"I don't know Bill, I have to admit the same questions have been running through my mind" he said.
"What's there to understand?" Ron stated standing up from the couch and pacing. "He's a traitor, a bastard who killed my brother! Now he's taken away all the money that should be ours and even crippled the order by stealing money from them!" To him everything was quite clear—black and white, there was no grey area. "We have to kill him!"
"Ron calm down, he can't evade everyone forever, time's running out for him." Charlie said placing a hand on the shoulder of his irate younger brother. Ron shrugged it off and sat down with a huff next to Hermione looking around the room.
Ginny sat curled up in the wing chair next to their father completely oblivious to the others, the twins whispered to each other about some kind of plan they were forming while everyone else looked solemn.
"I Hate Him!" Ron shouted and dropped his head into his hands.
"Ron, we understand," Mr. Weasley said, "all of us accepted him as part of the family and then turned on us. I don't understand why, but there's nothing we can do about that now. We have to move on and help in whatever way we can to win this war. Those siding with the Dark Lord will eventually pay dearly for their crimes, we have to have faith and believe that this will end in time." Little did he know how prophetic his words were.
"I hope your right dad, but it's hard to think about him being free to run around causing more death and pain. Percy's dead, his life cut short. He had a promising career and now he…….That bastard deserves so much more than the Dementors kiss that the minister has just recently authorized. I want him in pain for the rest of his life after what he has done to our family," said Charlie vehemently.
"I agree Charlie, but we have to concentrate on finding him, and I agree with Dumbledore that he might be more useful to us alive than dead at this point."
"I can't believe you Hermione!"
"Ron, don't you see, Potter is probably one of the few supporters who may have intimate knowledge of Voldemorts plans. Professor Snape has already stated that he only tells his goons right before an attack what they are suppose to do. Maybe Potter has been helping plan these attacks so maybe he knows more than the others. That would explain why Snape doesn't know about the attacks and hasn't seen Potter at Death Eater meetings. He seems to have been involved with all of the attacks since his escape. At least that's what the captured Death Eaters have said. It makes sense."
"Yeah I guess your right" Ron conceded grudgingly.
Talk continued until they were called to dinner. No one noticed that there was one red headed member and a lone werewolf who did not partake in their crucifixion of the Boy-Who-Lived and barely ate what was on their plate. The two sat in silence waging an internal verbal war trying to figure out the truth that lay hidden to so many. Before desert was passed around Remus suddenly got up from the table and left. Although noticed, no one commented on his departure. Remus Lupin swore to himself he would find Harry before the others and would find out what was going on.
Meanwhile Harry was revising his plans to incorporate Voldemorts recent plot to further the belief of Harry's betrayal of the light. Maintaining one step ahead of all his enemies was a tricky business but he was finding that it was easy to manipulate their actions to further his plans. It was now mid August and Harry was going to step up the tempo a little to confuse the world. Although the Death Eaters thought they had the advantage they were not able to kill anyone during their attacks let alone torture them. Harry was always there to stop them and knew this infuriated Voldemort. Planting Death Eaters with false stories at the scene was only of small concern to Harry as they would ultimately serve to ruin Voldemorts plans shortly. It was now time for Lucious to have a little payback.
Stunning Lucious in his cell before he entered, Harry set to work changing the man's appearance. Tonight would be the night Harry Potter would fall into the hands of the ministry. Picking up the unconscious man Harry apparated to the sight of tonight's Death Eater attack and lay the man on the ground in front of the house. He quickly set up wards to protect the house and its inhabitants and waited invisible until the Death Eaters showed their faces, not literally speaking of course, since they wore those stupid masks. Harry never did understand why they hid their faces; if they were the most powerful wizards and instilled fear in others why hide their face? It actually was quite a dichotomy.
Snapping his thoughts back to the present he heard them approach. Oh this was going to be fun, from the magical auras he could see, it looked like 10 Death Eaters would be here tonight. Where Voldemort kept find
Although Lucious didn't have his wand on him Harry knew the man could still apparate and he was counting on him to do just that. Wouldn't he be surprised to find out that no matter where he tried to go he would end up in only one place! When the Death Eaters came into view and were only a few meters from the form of Lucious he woke the man up.
Lucious stood groggily wondering where he was. Upon seeing his brethren approaching he tried to shout at them, but his voice would not respond. He tried waving to get their attention and was appalled when one of them tried to stun him. He reached for his wand and tried to curse when he couldn't find it. He was able to dodge the stunner and tried to shout again in anger, but again nothing would leave his mouth. Soon the curses were flying and without a wand he knew he was dead. Seeing no other option Lucious apparated from the place hoping to return to his master and figure out what was going on.
The Death Eaters saw a body lying on the ground and as they came closer, the man stood as if waking from a deep sleep. It was Harry Potter! Their master would be pleased for such a prize and they would be rewarded handsomely. One of the Death Eaters, quicker than the others on his assumption of his masters reaction, stepped forward and shot a stunner at the boy. The boy jumped out of the way but not soon enough as the night was lit with a variety of curses when his brethren also figured out the importance of the boy before them. Too late they realized that the boy had disappeared, and in his place stood the black robed mysterious man they had all learned to be afraid of. No one ever returned from a mission where he intervened. No one except those that were turned over to the ministry that is. Feeling lost the men tried to leave as fear over rode all other senses but they found they couldn't apparate and their portkeys didn't work. The man quickly dispatched the 10 Death Eaters, cleaned up the damage caused by their curses, stored all his new captives appropriately and apparated to watch the fun. Tonight he could go without watching the incompetence of the Ministry Aurors.
Lucious Malfoy appeared in the middle of Diagon Alley right in front of Gringotts Wizarding Bank. This was not where he was trying to go and immediately apparated again. He wound up only a few feet away from where he was before. After two more attempts he was resigned to the fact that he couldn't apparate out, he would have to find another way out of the alley. However, his attempts at apparition had alerted a few Aurors in the vicinity on guard duty to his appearance. They kept him in sight while quietly alerting the other Aurors and Order members within the alley that Harry Potter was walking nonchalantly down the street.
Lucious walked towards the Leaky Cauldron completely unaware of the group forming behind him and following at a discreet distance. Before he could get to the Leaky Cauldron he was stopped as a group of Aurors stepped out in front of him.
"Harry Potter, you are under arrest for the murder and torture of….."
Without looking around to see who they were addressing, Lucious once again tried to apparate but only wound up right in front of Gringotts again. This wasn't the best situation for him to be in. With so many Aurors crowding Diagon Alley it would be hard for him to escape detection. He was furious when one of the Aurors tried to tackle him and he immediately tried to take the man out with his fists. Screaming filled his mind but his vocal cords just wouldn't respond. More Aurors arrived to assist and tried to take him out, he fought viciously for several minutes and sported several bruises to his face and body before someone took him out with a stunning curse. Lucious Malfoy fell into blackness not knowing what was happening.
Harry watching in the shadows fought hard to keep his laughter in check. 'you know old boy I do believe your having too much fun with this!' an inner voice stated.
'Well considering I haven't been allowed any freedoms or happiness for oh what…. My entire life, consider this making up for all those times.'
'Looks like you'll be having more than enough fun in the next year to make up for the past.'
'Nothing would be able to make up for the past'
'oh you're spoiling it, getting all serious on us'
'oh shut up, I really don't need voices in my head distracting me, I'll start thinking I've gone crazy again.'
'Been there, done that, we won't return to it, besides what would you do without us'
'Sssh, let's just go see what happens at the ministry.'
After the Aurors had subdued Lucious they apparated away with their new prisoner and Harry followed. He watched as they lead him down to a row of white washed cells that were housing the Death Eaters that Harry had sent their way. Harry appreciated the fact that the death eaters were not being taken to Azkaban as it wasn't really safe and was impressed at the spell work done to keep the prisoners from escaping. Following unseen and undetected he watched as they threw Lucious into an empty cell and locked him in. Through the one way glass Harry could see the flushed face, his own face, but Lucious still hadn't caught on. Lucious walked up to the glass and was pounding on it with his fists, his mouth was moving but no sound came out. Harry smile at this and settled in for the show to start.
Lucious stepped back from the glass and started to look around at his new surroundings. He saw a reflection in what he knew to be a one way glass containment wall and was startled to see Harry Potter staring back at him. He took a step forward looking into the glass thinking it a trick but the reflection mirrored his movements. Understanding dawned on him and he raged around the room, blood rushing to his face in anger he searched dementedly for anything to destroy or throw. The only thing in this room was a small cot which he proceeded to rip to shreds with his bare hands still shouting soundlessly. When the bed lay in ruins his anger still had not subsided and he began kicking at the remains and trying to shred them further.
Harry watched laughing loudly at the antics of Lucious Malfoy. Thankful for the silencing charm he placed around himself because he couldn't stop. Tears of mirth were running down his face unchecked and his sides ached from laughing so hard. Pleased to see his stunt had worked so well he anxiously awaited the next phase, and sure enough he saw them walking towards him. It was the entire Weasley clan minus Ginny, Albus Dumbledore, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Tonks, the Minister of Magic himself and a few other unknown aurors. Harry assumed the extra aurors were part of the minister's own personal body guard and made a mental note to himself about it.
They reached the glass of the cell containing 'himself' and waited for their reactions. Sucking in breaths to slow his laughter and relieve the pain in his side while drying his face and eyes he silently scanned their thoughts. They stood watching the man inside ranting and raving trying to destroy his cell with a look of terror and disbelief on their faces. Surely this was enough to prove the boy was insane and a follower of the Dark Lord. Who else would act in such a manner upon being captured? Harry watched as his old headmasters shoulders slumped and he nodded almost imperceptibly to Kingsley. Kingsley acknowledged the order and stepped into the cell with wand raised. Lucious, or rather Harry Potter, stopped dead in his tracks staring at the man entering his cell, then leapt at the man trying to strangle him. Tonks stepped from behind Kingsley and stunned Harry/Lucious before he got to within a foot of Kingsley. They left Harry slumped unconscious on the floor and exited the cell. Before leaving though the real Harry had caught the smug looks on the faces of those present and the pain tore at his heart. He left for home and drowned his sorrow in his now favorite past time, drinking.
"He was crazy I tell you. Geez if you saw the look in his eyes you would believe me!"
"Ron it couldn't be that bad."
"Gin you didn't see him, by the time we got there he had already shredded the cot in his room, there was nothing left! When Kingsley went in, he tried to kill him with his bare hands! It was scary!"
"Ron, you know you have a tendency to over exaggerate…"
"Hermione you weren't there! Don't tell me what I saw! Ask George or Fred, they'll back me up, Bill and Charlie were there too!"
"Yeah it was pretty frightful" Fred interjected.
"Never seen him like that before,"
"At least not in person,"
"Well did he answer any questions? And what was he doing walking alone in Diagon Alley as if nothing was up?" Ginny asked trying to change the subject.
"I don't know why he was there. But he must have gone mental in Azkaban! It sure looked it at the Ministry. After he tried to attack Kingsley, Tonks stunned him and they just left him there. I heard from Bill that they have to keep him sedated because he goes wild when he's awake. Tries to attack anyone that comes in." Ron said.
"Yeah at least they're using stunners which are somewhat painful instead of giving him sleeping potions and such," Fred added.
"Fred that's horrible!"
"Gin he deserves everything he gets" George retaliated.
"Gin you know their right, plus I don't think sleeping potions would last long, they're very addictive and have a tendency for the user to grow immunity towards them if used too long." Hermione stated.
"God I can't believe what I'm hearing from you people. Do I even know you anymore?"
"Gin come on, what's up with you?"
"You are what's up with me, my stupid idiotic bothers and girlfriend. Hermione I would have thought at least you would have looked into things. You go around spouting your knowledge like a freaking encyclopedia but the one time when you could have used that overfilled brain of yours it fails you. Tell me one thing, because I can't understand it, why was Percy at Harry's house the night he died. What reason would he have for being there, cause I can't figure it out!" With that she stormed out of the Three Broomsticks leaving four very bewildered looking teens.
Harry sitting in the booth next to them, as had been his custom whenever they were there, heard the entire conversation. He felt a spark of hope light within the depths of his soul and without drawing attention to himself paid his bill and followed Ginny out of the pub. She was moving fast down the street and Harry quickened his pace to try to catch her up, all the while trying to figure out how to start a conversation with her. Sitting down beneath her favorite tree she drew her knees up to her chest and let the tears fall.
"Excuse me Miss…"
"Ginny, just call me Ginny" she answered in a far away voice not realizing who was talking to her.
"Ginny, may I join you?"
"Whatever" Ginny replied waving her hand in the air, still lost somewhere else.
"If I'm not being to forward, can I ask why you are crying?"
"Oh, am I, well sorry" she said wiping her eyes with her sleeve then finally turning to the person besides her, " you're that man that well, um, I see, that um "
"James Roper"
"Sorry James, I just have a lot on my mind lately"
"Care to talk about it?" Harry asked hoping she would.
"Well it is kind of personal," she replied eyeing him up and down.
"I understand," Harry said in defeat, and then took a leap of faith, "This wouldn't have to do with a certain Harry Potter would it?"
"How do you know about him? Boy you're a nosy git"
"Wow, sorry, guess I hit a nerve there didn't I" Harry said raising his hands in front of him in mock defense. Ginny giggled and Harry smiled at the sound. He liked her laugh; it made him feel light as if all the cares of the world were being washed away. He stared into her eyes and saw her returning it, he could get lost in those expressive brown eyes with the sun setting off golden sparks in them.
"Well yeah, we used to be friends, and I just don't know……You of course heard he escaped. Everyone says he's dangerous and has been involved with the Death Eater attacks and others believe it couldn't possibly be him because he hasn't even completed school yet. It all just sounds so wrong, I can't place it. And then he shows up walking nonchalantly down Diagon Alley where he knows he would be captured! What do you think?"
"Well I don't rightly know, I don't have all the facts yet, care to fill me in?"
"It's a really long story, and it's getting late, I'm sure you have better things to do than hang around a mope like me listening to all this."
"Not really, but if you would rather not talk about it, maybe some other time?" Harry stood up offering his hand to help her up. She looked up at him ashamed about how she felt about this strange handsome man, she felt like she was cheating on Harry. 'You were never dating you know. He never said he liked you like that at school,' and inner voice challenged. Accepting his hand she straightened out her outfit and entwined her arm in the one he offered.
"How about we go to the Three Broomsticks for a Butterbeer? I'd really like to spend some more time with you."
"Really James, you barely know me" she said with a small blush.
"Exactly my point."
"Well okay, I guess it couldn't hurt."
Harry was in heaven; he was talking with Ginny and getting to know her. With her arm intertwined in his the world felt perfect and he didn't want it to end. They made small talk on their way back to the pub and she was laughing creating that odd reaction within him. The three Weasley's and Hermione were still at the same booth and Ginny didn't want to join them so they talked and laughed with Madame Rosmerta drinking their Butterbeers until Harry caught his reflection in the mirror. For some reason a lead weight sank to the pit of his stomach and all his enjoyment of being with Ginny faded. He looked at her face, flushed pink from laughter and her warm brown eyes and knew that she didn't see him as Harry but as a different man, James Roper. Would she be able to laugh the same with the real Harry? Probably not and his mood grew darker.
Ginny noticed the mood change in her new acquaintance and she grew thoughtful. "Is there something wrong James?"
James? Who's that? Oh shit, she's talking to me. "Ah nothing, I was just remembering something I had to do tonight that's all. Work you know." He said trying to find an excuse.
"I take it you don't really like your job?" Ginny probed.
Harry looked up searching her face for any sign of recognition, the question seemed to have more than one meaning and he wasn't sure. "Not really" was all he said.
"Well I'm sure there are other jobs out there for you. You just have to find the right one." She said as if was an easy thing to do.
"I'm ah, sort of committed to finish this before I can.. um….change positions." He said trying to turn the conversation.
"Well then finish it quickly and move on. You can't wait forever you know."
Geez did she really know what she was implying? Nope, how could she, she didn't even know who she was really talking to. To her, he was just a normal guy with a normal boring job that he didn't like. It was everything he had ever wanted but it didn't feel right.
"Well I guess I should be going then. May I see you again some time?" He spat out before thinking about what he was asking and what it would put him through.
"Sure, I don't see why not. I work at my brother's store here over the holidays for extra spending money so you can get in touch with me there. Thanks James for everything." She said as she got up from her seat and rejoined the others.
Harry watched her go with a saddened heart and left the pub once she was in deep conversation with her friend and family.
When Harry arrived home the alarms were screaming wildly. He quickly searched the house and found none other than Remus Lupin poking around what looked to him a decrepit rotting shack. Silencing the alarms he watched as Remus moved from room to room searching for something. Harry guessed correctly what his goal was.
"Harry? Are you here?" Remus whispered throughout the house. "Harry please, I must talk to you, I know you were innocent! Please show yourself if you're here." The man walked through several other rooms searching and when he didn't find anything returned to the living room and sank to the floor holding his head in his hands. His shoulders were shaking and Harry knew the man was crying, his heart went out to him and a small piece of his heart fell into place. Without revealing himself or his home he approached Remus and spoke.
"Why are you here Remus?"
The man jumped at the sound of the voice and looked wildly around trying to discern the source of the voice.
"Remus?"
"Harry? Is that you?"
"Why are you here Remus?" Harry asked again not wanting to reveal himself just yet.
"Harry I came to find you, before the others. They think you're involved with Voldemort, I just can't believe that! Just like I can't believe you did those things a year ago. I'm so sorry I wasn't there Harry, I failed you, I….I…." the man collapsed crying again.
Harry couldn't take anymore and decided to show himself to Remus. "I know Remus; I know you were the only one that believed in me." He said kneeling down next to the last marauder, the last of his father's best friends.
"Harry?" Remus looked up into the brilliant emerald eyes and unruly black hair, disbelieving this could be real.
"Yes Moony it's really me." Harry wasn't prepared when the man jumped and wrapped him into a tight hug.
"Oh God Harry, you're alive, I only hoped, thank Merlin I found you, what are you doing here? They're looking for you, you're not safe here Harry, you need to go now…"
"Moony calm down please.." Harry spoke disengaging the man's strong grip around his neck. "Please, I'm safer than you can imagine, but you're right that we can't be out in the open like this. If you would come with me, I'll show you, but you have to promise not to tell anyone, actually if you don't want to stay I might have to get your permission to alter your memory after this."
"What?"
"Do you trust me?"
"Of course Harry but what are you going on about?"
"Do you agree to have me alter you memory when you leave here?"
"Of course Harry, but I won't be telling anyone where you are, there's no one powerful enough to break into a werewolf's mind. In fact I just might have to impose myself upon you to make sure your safe."
Harry laughed at this and Remus smiled. Helping Remus up off their positions on the floor Harry revealed the password that would allow Remus to see his true home.
"My God Harry, look at this place! Is this….the…. Shrieking Shack?"
"Yes Moony it is. As you can see I've made a few alterations to the place. Do you like it?"
"Yes Harry but how?"
"Well that's a long story. Are you hungry? How about I show you around the place and then I can make dinner while we talk?"
"Lead on!" Remus said.
The short tour impressed Remus greatly and he added a few tips on certain decorations to lighten the place up a little before they moved to the kitchen to prepare dinner. Harry discovered that Remus actually knew his way around the kitchen almost as good as himself, but stated that he would never admit it to anyone. They chatted lightly about different topics until they were done with dinner and Harry suggested they retire to the living room for the serious talk. Pouring them both a glass of Firewhiskey and placing the bottle on the coffee table, he motioned for Remus to take a seat. Harry downed his glass and poured another much to the surprise of Remus, but he didn't say anything. Pacing in front of the fire Harry began his tale. By the end of it he was slouched in one of the wing chairs downing his fifth glass of Firewhiskey.
"So that's it. Pretty disturbing I realize, but there's not much else to tell. You understand now why I have to alter your memory when you leave. I'm pretty sure Dumbledork suspects something and I can't have him getting any information from you. I have plans in motion that I can't afford to be interrupted at this point."
"Harry… I…." Remus gulped and finished off the Firewhiskey he'd been nursing through the tale. "I never knew, I.."
"It's alright Moony, it is pretty unbelievable even to me and I've lived through it." Harry chuckled a little, earning a nervous glance from his old professor.
"Harry, I don't know what you would say to this, but I don't think I can go back to them. Even with a memory charm in place I don't agree with what they are doing and eventually they would have me holed up just like they did with Sirius. I don't want to hinder you in any way, but ……"
"Remus, do you want to stay with me?" Harry asked incredulously. It was more than he had hoped for really. He never even considered it before and now here Remus was laying it out on the line for him. Dare he accept? Why not? Gotta start somewhere and he really was lonely in this house by himself.
"If you don't mind I'd like that very much Harry." Remus barely whispered.
"Of course I don't mind Moony!" Harry said springing out of his seat with renewed energy. "It's perfect, I don't expect you to help me of course, some of the things I'm doing, well ..could… well really are considered illegal by the ministry and I don't want you to get into trouble."
"Harry, trouble is what a marauder does! Of course I'll help you, you haven't really been given it before, and from what you've told me you're making more headway in this war than anyone else. What do you say we call it a night and continue this tomorrow?"
"Sounds good to me. Pick whatever room you want Moony; we'll get you set up in the morning. G'night" Harry yawned and they both turned in for the night, feeling like a weight had been lifted from their shoulders.